The Perks of Being a Rebel

Edenvale Arts Academy #4

by Liwen Y. Ho

The guy who broke my heart turns out to be the very one who can heal it.

Juliet

After taking care of my mom during her health crisis, it’s time for me to go after my dreams. I’m determined to end my senior year the best way ever, by getting a role in our school’s spring musical. Everything’s going according to plan until Jaxon Knight shows up. My ex. At my audition. With a hot scruffy beard.

But I can’t afford to be distracted, no matter how much I’ve missed him.

Jaxon

I should be on the road touring with my bandmates, but my little sister needs me home. The first person I bump into at Edenvale has to be Juliet Vaughn, the only girl I’ve ever loved (and hurt). Seeing her again makes me want to stop running from my problems because I just want to run back into her arms. She’s the best thing to have ever happened to me; I just wish I’d realized it sooner.

I have no idea how to keep my distance when all I want is to give her the special place in my heart that she deserves.

Two broken hearts. One unexpected kiss. And a chance to turn past mistakes into future promises.

Welcome to Edenvale Arts Academy, where the performing arts are celebrated, friendships last forever, and romance takes center stage.

Genres: Young Adult

170 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 16, 2020

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Liwen Y. Ho works as a chauffeur and chef by day (AKA a stay at home mom) and a writer by night. Her strength is in creating character-driven, deep POV romance infused with faith, humor, and happy ever afters.

In her pre-author life, she received a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Western Seminary. She loves makeovers of all kinds, especially those of the heart and mind. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her techie husband and their two children (AKA munchkins).

Sign up for Liwen's newsletter for news about her upcoming releases, book giveaways and more at http://liwenho.com/free-book!

Reviews

[MJSH · Rating 5 out of 5]

"And he was like a freshly baked waffle cone - chocolate dipped with sprinkles! - that caught me and kept me from completely falling apart."

Jaxon and Juliet. Sigh. They are now my favorite couple at Edenvale Arts Academy. Jaxon and Juliet are definitely more mature than the other high schoolers featured in the series so far. They have both suffered and endured much hardship and tragedy, yet continue to hold on to hope and love and goodness. Jaxon is such a sweetheart - tender, loving, and gentle. Though he's been on the road touring with a popular band, his heart is always and forever in Juliet's hands. Juliet has spunk and determination but doesn't know what to do with herself when her ex-boyfriend Jaxon comes home and old feelings return. Told in first person perspective from Jaxon and Juliet, their love for each other is tangible and sweet but their hang ups to the relationship are totally understandable. Through their heartache, they learn how to love each other better and realize what a good thing they have together. Jaxon's younger sister Zoe provides comic relief as well as overly dramatic matchmaking efforts which are quite fun. If you have been following the series, you'll get a lot of Max and Angel in this story with bits of Seth/Hannah and Liam/Ava. Colin and Candy Spark from Spark Brothers series also make a cameo appearance in this book.

Such fun, clean YA book for contemporary readers of all ages! I received a copy of the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

[Priscila · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series honestly keeps getting better and better, and I would even say that the author, by now, has this genre down to a pat. The expressions, feelings and teen culture references are on point, and this only cements the notion I previously had: I'll read anything Liwen Ho writes ;)

So, where to start? This particular book follows Juliet and Jaxon’s story, whom we had heard about (and even seen a bit) in the previous book. Each has their own set of problems to deal with: her having a passion for acting but not being able to pursue her dream since she takes care of her mom, who has been really affected by the passing of her dad; and him with a passion for playing the guitar, and actually being a guitarist for one cool/famous band, but back in town to take care of his little sister while their mom is in rehab, while also dealing with regret over past decisions. Oh, and did I mention these two are exes? Yep, that means we’re all set up for a wild fun(?) ride.

What was different for me while reading this book, compared with the previous one, is that I decided to pace myself and just savor the experience, and boy, am I glad I read it that way! I love the way the author has with words, and especially at making the reader feel what the characters are experiencing, be it embarrassing or sweet moments :) What also added to my enjoyment was the little details, like the nickname Jaxon gave Juliet, or even Jaxon’s fitting last name ;) (it’s Knight, btw). Also, the pull at my heartstrings felt so real when reading about the struggle these two would face as being exes that were trying to be friends *smirks* yeah, right Oh, and the cameos were so much fun! So great getting to see some familiar faces :) (from Max and Angel to Colin and Candy Spark, as well as Mrs. Chan) But, granted, what I really liked (and has even become something one can expect from this author) is that she doesn't shy away from tough subjects such as a parent needing therapy in order to cope with the loss of a loved one that probably triggered depression.

Honestly, I could go on and on about a million more things I loved about this book, but then I think I’d be ruining the experience for others (if I haven't done so already *gulps* sorry!), so I’ll just finish with one last phrase/reference: Best. Epilogue. Ever!!!

Of course, if this book was this good, I honestly can't wait to see how the author tops it off with the final(?) book in the series, giving us finally the story between Mimi and Nolan *insert happy squeal* ~5 stars

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story very much. The entire series has been wonderful. Like the others in the series, the author tackles tough but realistic topics so many children experience but we don’t talk about globally.

The couple in this story, Jaxon and Juliet, start from a different place than the other couples in the series, nine months after their relationship ended. Jaxon left town to tour with a huge band and despite their efforts it was too difficult to maintain a long distance romance. Juliet was left behind to finish her senior year of high school, never expecting to see Jaxon back in town. What to do with all those unsaid feelings, hurts and wanting to be with each other?

Let’s just say it’s a roller coaster of a ride. On this ride we have the school musical, calling all Sound of Music lovers. We have Zoe, Jaxon’s irrepressible 11 year old sister (you’re gonna love her!). There is Juliet’s well meaning cousin Angel and her boyfriend Max and of course, Jaxon and Juliet just trying to hang on and figure out what’s what in their relationship. Back together? Just friends? Nothing?

I particularly enjoyed the dichotomy of Jaxon and Juliet’s personalities. Jaxon might be the kid on stage living his dream of playing his guitar but he is the more introspective of the two. Juliet is exuberant and says what she thinks. But both of them struggle with expressing themselves with regards to the unintended familial responsibilities they both have.

My favorite aspect of the author’s YA books is that every age group will enjoy them. I also believe they are excellent conversation starters between friends, between parent and child and between siblings, about delicate situations so many of us experience as teenagers.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest review. I highly recommend reading it!

[Stox4story · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh, the hardships of long distance relationships. Out of sight, out of mind and taking for granted that things will stay the same can be a rude awakening. And, when you realize you messed up it can be heart wrenching.

Jaxson wasn’t the only one that messed up. Nope, Juliet did too. Oh yes, she plays the victim well, but she brought a lot of this on herself. Jaxson wasn’t a mind reader. She needed to open up and be honest with him. And let's face it, she was the one that shot the fatal blow to their relationship by jumping the gun and not talking things out.

So, does Jaxon deserve a second chance? He claims he hurt the only woman he’s ever loved. What must he do to make things right? How does he earn Juliet’s trust …… again? Forgiving may be difficult but forgetting is a lot harder. And as for Juliet, she has a lot of growing up to do. With only has a couple months left for high school graduation, she’s getting ready to head out into the world herself. Things need to change, her maturity needs a real growth spurt.

👁 OBSERVATIONS:

✓ Angel was wrong…. she held back information from Juliet about Jaxon being back, then Max turned it all around making Jaxon into the fall guy. Max and Angel needed to take responsibility for their own choices. No one forced them to hide the truth about Jaxon being back. That’s especially true considering they kept teasing Juliet about him.

✓ Zoe is precious. It was a poignant moment when she asked if her dad leaving them was her fault.

✓ My heart went out to Jaxon. He had so much on his shoulders. He was a breadwinner, a brother that had to take on a dad’s role, and had to maintain a hard and difficult work schedule. I hope he gets a real break and lands that guitarist role for Aiden Spark’s new album.

I received an advance copy of this book and am freely leaving my review.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another sweet romance in the Edenvale Arts series! I've read book 3 and really enjoyed it, so I was happy to see Angel and Max make a reappearance as secondary characters in this one. This book is about Angel's cousin Juliet and her ex Jaxon who happens to come back into her life after separating almost a year ago. I think the characters' personalities are done well. My favourite was Jaxon's meddling little sister Zoe. She is the perfect and cutest matchmaker! Definitely made the book fun to read.

Emotions and tensions run high through the whole book between the Juliet and Jaxon and the pacing is good, though the plot isn't all that complicated. So this is a nice read if you want a straightforward second chance romance with lots of feels, some The Sound of Music references (because who doesn't love The Sound of Music?) and of course a HEA. If you've read other books by Liwen, you will may also enjoy the cameos of her other characters too.

(I was given an ARC in exchange for a voluntary honest review)

[Chicken · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Romance: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Writing: ✏️✏️✏️✏️✏️

The story follows Jaxon and Juliet. A year ago, Jaxon left his hometown and Juliet for a music tour. He got busy and lost his priorities, pretty much forgetting about Juliet. She, therefore, decided to call a break on their relationship. Now he’s back in town to take care of his sister after his stepdad left and his mom moved to rehab for her alcohol addiction. Seeing each other again brought back feelings that neither of them expected. Jaxon messed up. Now he wants to make it right. Juliet doesn’t know what to make of his arrival. He is, after all, going to leave again.

There is emotion, pain, and most of all love in this novel. All the characters are well built and easy to imagine. Both the characters grew throughout the story and learned from life. They both had to grow up fast but it helped them understand life. I really look forward to reading Nolan and Mimi’s story.

I wrote this voluntary review in exchange for an ARC copy.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this crazy world of ours, it is so nice to read a book where people overcome adversity and love wins. Such was this second chance romance with Jaxon and Juliet as the main characters. They both have had some tough family issues to navigate and then Jaxon left town to pursue an amazing opportunity when he won a chance to tour with a famous band. It was difficult to keep their relationship alive when it became long distance and eventually they drifted apart. Jaxon and Juliet still loved each other but they weren’t sure they could figure out a way to support and love each other when they were physically apart for an extended period of time or if they should even try again. I am an adult but I have enjoyed this YA series so much even though it is targeted to younger readers. It is nice to remember being young and falling in love. I highly recommend it! I was entrusted a copy of this book by the author and this is my voluntary and honest opinion.

[Lori R · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a cute, sweet, love story involving Juliette and Jaxon and several matchmakers trying to get them back together. Jaxon left to be a guitarist for the Backroad Boys band and Juliette is still attending Edenvale Arts Academy. The most persistent matchmaker is Zoe, Jaxon's little sister that he came home to take care of while his mom is in rehab.

It was such fun reading about the play practices for the musical, Sound of Music which is one of my favorites. I liked the scene with Juliette and Jaxon as he filled in for a sick cast member.It was magical and full of chemistry. I also liked how Jaxon had a chance to grow up and realize what was truly important to him. It was fun watching him try to win his best girl back. I really liked reading this book and this series. The characters seem so real and are so refreshing as they overcome family struggles and find their way in life. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in Liwen Ho’s Edenvale Arts Academy series. If you get a chance to read the first three, it will enhance your enjoyment of this book, but it’s not as necessary as with some series. Ho does a good job of providing needed background on characters that have appeared in other books.

This book seemed a bit heavier on the teenage slang (adorbs, jelly, etc.), but most of it I figured out - I’m a long ways off from my teenage years, and we used different slang back in those dark ages :-)

The characters are well-drawn, and the conflicts they have to resolve are realistic. There’s good insights shared on forgiveness, second chances, growing up, and seeing things from different perspectives. Once again, I like the fact that character and core values are as important as physical looks for these young adults when they decide with whom they want to have relationships.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Perks of Being a Rebel is an adorable, clean YA romance. This is part of a series, yet it can be read as a stand-alone. I enjoy getting to see peeks at other characters that I’ve read about previously and this one even has a crossover character from the author’s Spark brothers series(another wonderful series). I was engrossed in this little gem from the beginning. The author has a fabulous writing style and I’ve not read a book of hers yet that I didn’t get caught up in. The storyline has a nice flow and the characters have an emotional depth and are completely relatable. The fun banter and comedic side brings in just the right amount of lightheartedness. This book is appropriate for preteens on up, in my opinion. I received an ARC and have chosen to give my honest thoughts.

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute YA romance by Liwen Y. Ho. This is only the second book I have read by this author but I really love this YA series. I love how believable the romance is between the teens and how they have to overcome misunderstandings to be together. I loved reading about Jaxon and Juliet and how they got another chance to be together. I loved how Jaxon found ways to make sure Juliet knew he loved her everyday even while he was away. I also loved how their friends were trying to help them get back together. Overall, a very cute, sweet read.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Franki · Rating 5 out of 5]

These are a few of my favorite things: books with happy endings, more books, and ‘The Perks of Being a Rebel’!
The saying “Learn from the past or you’re doomed to repeat it,” has come to bite Jaxon. After watching his step father fail to put first things first for the people he loves, Jaxon never thought he’d make the same mistake. Now he has lost Juliet.
Juliet’s mother is finally able to get out of bed and is in nursing school. This leaves Juliette too busy working on school, drama, and helping out at her deceased father‘s coffee shop. She doesn’t have time to hold on to things that are gone.
Can a few weeks really change anything for these star-crossed lovers?
I received an ARC copy of this book and I am leaving a voluntary review.

[Vicki or Dennis Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great addition to this continuing "saga" of Edenvale and the wonderful Spark Brothers. Although this isn't about the Sparks specifically, it does bring them in at various times through the story. Everyone is getting settled in with their special someone, but this couple are facing a breakup as the year has progressed. A story that has enough twists and turns that keep you riveted, but in the end will they be able to find their way back to each other? If you leave it to one precocious little sister there will be a smile on everyone's face for graduation!

I received an ARC copy of this book, but this is my voluntary, honest and completely personal review.
VICKI FROM WYOMING

[Jeanne Okerlund · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story has the teenagers deal with problems many of us face. Losing a parent by death, separation or divorce. Always concerned about making enough money to help the household. Having to get over someone you love that isn't in your life anymore.

Jaxon and Juliet had been very much in love. Jacob left for a lifetime opportunity. Leaving Juliet feeling that he no longer cared. Now he is back and the feelings that are flowing through both of them are deep. Jaxon realized where his mistakes where and made the needed changes. His character is so in tune with his feelings. He is a character after my own heart!

Don't miss this moving story.

[Julie G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet story that highlights Jaxon and Juliet. It can probably be read as a stand alone but is more fun having read the previous stories. Jaxon struggles with academics but shines as a musician and is touring with a band as a guitarist. He leaves behind Juliet. This is the story of how they work through all the issues surrounding that. The relationship was handled well as well as the surrounding family issues. I think it would have been exceptional if the big issues that were introduced were developed a bit more. Having said that, it’s a YA novel and for that, it’s perfect.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've really enjoyed this series, but I struggled getting into this story. It was probably just the mood I've been in lately, because I've read other reviews saying Juliet and Jaxon were their favorite. I did like them. They had great chemistry and were really good for each other. I liked how they helped each other out. Zoe was also a hoot. I was a shy little sister, but I have sisters like Zoe and she made me laugh. This was a sweet story about growing up and thinking of others.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really loved this second chance sweet romance

Jaxon was taken away touring with a band. Juliet was still in high school, preparing form her senior year and hoping for a lead role in The Sound of Music musical. Jaxon was called back home to care for his younger sister as her temporary legal guardian. They went on a break months earlier.

What a great book about rekindling love. It really did make me feel something. I highly recommend it for sweet romance YA fans.

[☠︎︎༒︎✞︎ ѕℓιм ☠︎︎༒︎✞︎ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Now I understand the title of this book

https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2020...

**spoilers just a few***

So okay; now, it took me awhile to finish this book. I somehow got a bit bored while reading this book...

I had to stop reading it. That’s what lead me to reading a few other books. Now I actually gotten around to reading this book and finishing it.

I’m glad I finally finished this because I wanted to know if Juliet and Jaxon was going to get back together and how they did.

It took Juliet awhile to come around to accepting that Jaxon made mistakes and so did she... to actually figure things out between theme. Especially with both of them having a better understanding now...

Plus I can’t wait for Nolan book to come out. Because I mentioned him before about him having his own book . When I read Seth and his girlfriend book... I believe the author told me that Nolan book will be the last one to this series but I’m not sure. But still can’t wait to read it.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a cute read. I love how the Sparks were brought into it. I loved the family involvement. The whole story is so good. I definitely recommend reading this book. I have not read one of Liwen Y. Ho's books that I haven't loved.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved Jaxon and Juliette's story. Absence certainly made Jason's heart grow fonder but he has a lot of making up to do to Juliet. When he realizes he has a chance to get her back he pulls out all the stops but Julliette doesn't make it easy. But love is worth the struggles. I received a complimentary copy and I am voluntarily reviewing.

[Shirley Peters · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has to be my favorite in the series so far. I love a good second chance romance, but this one managed to also be a delightful slow burn too. Juliet and Jaxon both have a lot of issues to work out, but the characters are allowed to grow and change priorities. And Zoe was the perfect little sister who was all sass and sweetness.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh to be young & in love & get the opportunity to correct past wrongs. This is a sweet story about all those topics that I enjoyed. Refreshing to read how Juliet & Jaxon work things out & get back together as lovers. I received an ARC. This is my honest, voluntary review.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a cute read for the YA genre. The author does a great job guiding Jaxon and Juliet through all the issues thrown their way. It's a well written book ,moves fluidly and is an enjoyable read.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

The whole time I was reading Jaxon and Juliet's, i had alot on my mind but while I was between the pages of their story i was able to escape my mind and my emotions and feel what they were feeling.

I received an ARC of this book from the author and I'm voluntary leaving my honest review

[Lenda Burns · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is so good, this fast becoming one of my favorite genres.
Liwen Ho blends her characters and the plot so well that this series is easy to read in order.
The only problem is waiting for the next one.

[Regina · Rating 4 out of 5]

True to form, book #4 in the Edenvale series hits the perfect balance between serious issues and a lighthearted, feel-good read. Jaxon and Juliet make a great couple, and it's always fun to reconnect with their group of friends, the usual Edenvale suspects, too.

[Rebecca White · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved this story about people pulled apart by following their dreams and then coming back together as the struggle to deal with life. I enjoyed them learning how to see things from others points of view.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

When two people decide that their relationship needs a break, it can seem pretty hopeless. However, when you've got a praying match-making sister, things can change. This was very good!

[Alicia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sweet YA at its best. Edenvale is a fun place to visit for a few hours. I liked this latest installment. It's sweet, clean and tender. Worth the read!

[Linda Lavoie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was the sweetest romantic second chance I have read this year, it was sweet but strong in emotions at the same time, the perfect blend of intensity and electricity in the air of this second chance romance. Jaxon and Juliet are in for the ride of their life with the help a smart little sister, I highly recommended it.
I received an Arc and I voluntarily leave an honest review.